C-section fully covered or homebirth out of pocket?

Question

My insurance will cover it fully if I have a c-section with my doc, but might (or might not) cover a homebirth with my midwife.

Before you ask, my dr wants to give me a c-section based on a 10% chance of a difficult delivery while the midwife doesn't foresee any problems.

What would you chose, c-section or a $4k bill?

He thinks I might have a big baby because my first was 8-12. He said this when I was 9 weeks (a little premature).

I did get FIVE second opinions, and confronted the doc about how ridiculous I think it is, so I do have a pair and I'm not running from anything.

The problem with getting a new doc is that his is the only group that goes to that hospital and the other hospital in the area is known for being unsanitary and for making A LOT of mistakes. So, that is not an option.

I delivered my fist vaginally without injury.

His group were the only one's who want to schedule me for a c-section without any complications.

Answer 1

Doctor's give far too many C-sections so that you will deliver your baby on their schedule. The American Medical Association has been disproving this method of delivering a baby, but nothing is really being do to prevent it. The doctor has the last call to give an unneccessary C-section. To say there is a 10% chance is a very low chance of needing one. If he said 50% or more than I would be concerned.

Besides, your midwife will be able to tell if you or the baby get into distress and can call for emergency transportation to the hospital if something changes during birthing your baby.

Answer 2

Why is the dr. worried about the difficult delivery? Can't you try to do a vaginal and if the baby gets into trouble you c-sect really quickly?

I have great respect for midwives, but if a medical dr is foreseeing a possible problem, my baby's health comes first. I had two c-sections, and that was the easiest part of my whole pregnancy. Even recovery was not bad at all. If I had to do it again, I'd demand c-sections the minute I hit the hospital. (My kids were huge, 10-6 and 8-10 3 weeks early.)

This scene has two problems: 1. the baby isn't as safe as he or she could be; 2. the midwife may not be covered by insurance and you have to pay her $4K which could start your child's college fund.

I don't see a problem here. Go to the hospital. Keep baby safe and your money in your pocket.

BUT, do discuss with your dr. trying for a vaginal birth until you're sure there's going to be difficulties. They can c-sect a baby in no time flat, esp if you already have an epidural in. Don't let your dr. call the shots if you're not comfortable with it. And if he won't budge, you find someone who will.

Debbie
TX Mom
Not a medical professional

Answer 3

Although I dont like it when docs tell you that you should plan for a c-section, I dont think it would be a wise desicion to have a home birth. What if your doc is right? Why cant you have your baby naturaly in the hospital without a c-section? Does your midwife not have hospital privlidges? Could you pay her to be there with you even with your doc? If you are going to fork out 4k for it, why not pay her a bit less and use her as a dula? I hope your delivery goes smoothly, but for your babies sake if there is any possibility that you might have a hard time I would have it in the hospital and be safe. Good Luck

Answer 4

I would go with what the doctor says. Your doctor went through years of schooling so that he/she knows what they are doing. The same is not true of a midwife. Why not discuss with your doctor the option of planning on having a regular vaginal delivery and then if necessary you will already be in the hospital in case you need an emergency c-section. If you do a home birth you risk needing the c-section but not being able to get to the hospital in time to get it. It could put both you and your baby's health and/or lives at risk. Good luck.

Answer 5

Tell the doctor you want to be induced and if the baby is having problems you will agree to a c section.... but only if the baby needs to be taken out right away. You can decline a c section. It is your body.... grow some and speak up for yourself instead of running away from the issue. Of course the midwife doesnt see any problems!!!! She wouldnt have much business if she went around telling people that things can go wrong because alot of women would come to their senses and decide to have the baby in the hospital. If your doctor thinks there is a chance your baby could be born breeched or too large for you to push out then why risk it and have a home birth?

Answer 6

If the Dr is saying a c-section may be necessary i wouldn't go with a homebirth. What is the problem that your Dr thinks would cause a c-section? Do you want to take an increased chance by giving birth at home? I would go with the c-section if the Dr feels it is necessary.

Answer 7

Home birth even after your insurance you will stay have to pay about that much if not more just by having a major surgery. I don't know what your co pay is but mine is 20% and my bill still totaled 4200 dollars so I would go with the home birth if she thinks it is safe!

Answer 8

Homebirth... have you thought about a birthing center? I chose one and insurance covered it...just a thought!

Answer 9

I would choose a vaginal birth in the hospital so that your insurance will cover it.

Answer 10

time to switch drs!! find one willing to give a vaginal birth a try.